Cushion and inflatable cushion

ABSTRACT

A cushion provides a protective comfortable barrier between a portion of a user&#39;s body and a supporting surface, and aids in the prevention of discomfort or numbness that accompanies long periods of contact with a supporting surface. In first and second aspects, an inflatable cushion comprises at least a first inflatable element and an outer element. When the first inflatable element is substantially fully inflated, the outer element is in contact with the first inflatable element, and the outer element at least partially covers the first inflatable element. In a third aspect, a cushion comprises a bladder having internal and external surfaces, the internal surface defines an internal space, the external surface comprises a first region, a second region and a peripheral region, and the peripheral region extends peripherally around an entire periphery of the bladder and extends from the first region to the second region around the entire periphery.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a cushion. More particularly, thepresent invention relates to an inflatable cushion. In specific aspects,the present invention relates to cushions which provide superiorcomfort, portability, adaptability and reusability, and which canreadily be stowed and/or transported.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Numerous inflatable cushions have been introduced to provide a surfacethat supports a portion of a user's body on or against a supportingsurface. The following U.S. patents relate to this field of endeavor:

U.S. Pat. No. D34,982

U.S. Pat. No. 1,703,629

U.S. Pat. No. 2,216,818

U.S. Pat. No. 2,552,476

U.S. Pat. No. 3,029,109

U.S. Pat. No. 4,445,240

U.S. Pat. No. 4,459,714

U.S. Pat. No. 4,779,297

U.S. Pat. No. D301,669

U.S. Pat. No. 5,003,653

U.S. Pat. No. 5,191,665

U.S. Pat. No. 5,634,223

U.S. Pat. No. D386,348

U.S. Pat. No. D429,106

U.S. Pat. No. D429,592

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided aninflatable cushion comprising at least a first inflatable element, andan outer element, in which, when the first inflatable element issubstantially fully inflated, the outer element is in contact with thefirst inflatable element and the outer element at least partially coversthe first inflatable element.

In some embodiments according to the first aspect of the presentinvention, when the first inflatable element is substantially fullyinflated:

the inflatable element is substantially disc-shaped;

at least a first imaginary cross-section of an outer surface of theinflatable element is substantially elliptical; and

at least a second imaginary cross-section of the outer surface of theinflatable element is substantially circular and is perpendicular to thefirst imaginary cross-section.

In some embodiments according to the first aspect of the presentinvention, when the first inflatable element is substantially fullyinflated, the first inflatable element has a substantially toroidalshape.

The expression “substantially fully inflated”, as used herein, whenreferring to a particular inflatable element, means that the interior ofthat inflatable element contains fluid at a pressure which is greaterthan ambient pressure, e.g., at least about 14.8 psi, and in some cases,at least about 16 psi or at least about 20 psi.

The expression “toroidal”, is used herein consistently with itsconventional usage to refer to a shape which could be generated byrotating a planar closed curve about a line that lies in the same planeas the curve but does not intersect such line. That is, the expression“toroidal” encompasses doughnut shapes which would be generated byrotating circles about a line that lies in the same plane as the circle,as well as shapes which would be generated by rotating squares,triangles, irregular (abstract) shapes, etc. about a line.

In some embodiments according to the first aspect of the presentinvention, when the first inflatable element is substantially fullyinflated, the first inflatable element has an irregular toroidal shape.The expression “irregular toroidal” is used herein to refer to a shapewhich could be generated by rotating a planar closed curve about a linethat lies in the same plane as the curve, and in which the shape of theplanar closed curve can vary during such rotation but never intersectsthe line about which it is being rotated.

In a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided aninflatable cushion comprising at least first and second inflatableelements, and an outer element. In this aspect of the invention, thefirst inflatable element is substantially toroidal or irregulartoroidal, and the first inflatable element and the second inflatableelement are shaped such that when the first inflatable element and thesecond inflatable element are both substantially fully inflated, anexternal surface of an inside region of the first inflatable elementabuts an external surface of the second inflatable element.

In some embodiments according to the first and second aspects of thepresent invention, the outer element comprises at least two panelsconnected to each other.

In some embodiments according to the first and second aspects of thepresent invention, the inflatable cushion further comprises at least onestrap handle attached to the outer element.

In some embodiments according to the first and second aspects of thepresent invention, the inflatable cushion further comprises at least onereinforced handle attached to the first inflatable element.

In some embodiments according to the first and second aspects of thepresent invention, the inflatable cushion further comprises at least oneanchoring strap attached to the outer element.

In some embodiments according to the first and second aspects of thepresent invention, the inflatable cushion further comprises at least onereinforced anchoring grommet attached to the first inflatable element.

In some embodiments according to the first and second aspects of thepresent invention, the inflatable cushion further comprises a pluralityof grommets positioned in the outer element.

In some embodiments according to the first and second aspects of thepresent invention, the inflatable cushion further comprises at least onedrawstring which, when at least the first inflatable element is at leastpartially deflated and the drawstring is pulled, cinches a peripheralregion of the outer element, whereby the outer element substantiallydefines and substantially surrounds an internal space with a holeadjacent to the peripheral region.

In some embodiments according to the first and second aspects of thepresent invention, the inflatable cushion further comprises at least onepad attached to the outer element and/or the first inflatable element.

In a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cushioncomprising a bladder having an internal surface and an external surface.

In some embodiments according to the third aspect of the presentinvention, the bladder is of a shape which, in cross-section, resemblesan anvil.

In this third aspect of the present invention, the internal surface ofthe bladder surrounds and defines an internal space. In this thirdaspect of the present invention, the external surface of the bladdercomprises a first region, a second region and a peripheral regionextending peripherally around an entire periphery of the bladder, theperipheral region extending from the first region to the second regionaround the entire periphery.

In some embodiments according to the third aspect of the presentinvention, the portion of the bladder which is adjacent to theperipheral region is substantially toroidal.

In some embodiments according to the third aspect of the presentinvention, the peripheral region has a cross-sectional shape which issubstantially semi-circular concave, whereby a center region of theperipheral region is closer to an axis defined by the peripheral regionthan portions of the peripheral region which are in contact with thefirst region and portions of the peripheral region which are in contactwith the second region. In such embodiments, the shape of the peripheralregion could be generated by rotating a planar semi-circle about a linewhich is co-planar with the semi-circle but does not intersect it, inwhich the point on the semi-circle which is closest to the line is nearor at the mid-point along the semi-circle (i.e., the end-points of thesemi-circle are farther from the line than each of the other points onthe semi-circle).

In some embodiments according to the third aspect of the presentinvention, the first region is substantially circular, the second regionis substantially circular, the first region is substantially planar andpositioned in a first plane, the second region is substantially planarand positioned in a second plane, and the first plane is substantiallyparallel to the second plane.

In some embodiments according to the third aspect of the presentinvention, the inflatable cushion further comprises at least one valvepositioned in the bladder, whereby fluid can be removed from theinternal inflatable space or supplied to the internal inflatable spacethrough the valve.

The present invention further provides embodiments of an inflatablecushion of non-complicated design constructed of at least one flexiblerubberized, plastic, vinyl, or coated fabric inflatable element of anycolor in the form of (1) a disc, (2) an annular tube, or (3) an annulartube with an interior cushion, that supports a portion of a user's bodywhen placed on or against a supporting surface.

The present invention further provides embodiments of an inflatablecushion which facilitates an interchangeable fitted outer elementconstructed of weather-resistant durable high-strength fabric of anycolor that fits securely around a fully inflated inflatable element.

The present invention further provides embodiments of an inflatablecushion which facilitates the insertion of at least one inflatableelement while in a deflated state (or at least partially deflated state)within an interchangeable fitted outer element through a permanentopening (e.g., provided at a central point of the bottom) or an accesspoint (e.g., at the back). Subsequent inflation of the inflatableelement(s) through inflation valve(s) accessible through theinterchangeable fitted outer element causes the outer wall of theinflating inflatable element(s) to apply increasing pressure to theinner wall of the interchangeable fitted outer element, securely fittingthe interchangeable fitted outer element around the fully inflatedinflatable element(s); moreover, such inflation retains theinterchangeable fitted outer element in a stable position to form andmaintain a top surface that supports a portion of a user's body whenplaced on or against a supporting surface.

The present invention further provides embodiments of an inflatablecushion that facilitates a protective comfortable barrier between aportion of a user's body and a supporting surface that assists in theprevention of discomfort or numbness that accompanies long periods ofcontact with a supporting surface.

The present invention further provides embodiments of an inflatablecushion that facilitates low cost in fabrication and manufacturing.

The present invention further provides embodiments of an inflatablecushion that incorporates artwork on the inflatable element(s) and/orthe interchangeable fitted outer element that supports not onlypromotional capabilities but also provides for an inflatable cushionthat reflects the environment within which the inflatable cushion isdeployed.

The present invention further provides embodiments of an inflatablecushion that a user might be willing to deploy within a publicenvironment.

The present invention further provides embodiments of inflatable cushionwhich can, if desired, embody one or more of the preceding objects, andwhich facilitates a higher level of portability.

The present invention further provides embodiments of an inflatablecushion which facilitates a higher level of portability through thefacilitation of a free standing design. Portability is increased when noframing (metal, plastic or otherwise), strapping, or base unit arepermanently secured to the inflatable cushion as a method to anchor theinflatable cushion to a supporting surface and limit the portability ofthe inflatable cushion.

The present invention further provides embodiments of an inflatablecushion which facilitates a higher level of portability through thefacilitation of lightweight construction, and relative small size thatcan easily be carried, and when in a deflated state, can easily befolded and conveniently stowed.

The present invention further provides embodiments of an inflatablecushion which facilitates a higher level of portability throughfacilitation of a handle secured to the outer element, or molded to aninflatable element and accessible through the outer element, allowingthe inflatable cushion to be carried while in an inflated state.

The present invention further provides embodiments of an inflatablecushion which facilitates a higher level of portability throughfacilitation of an interchangeable fitted outer element thatincorporates a drawstring secured at a circumference of a permanentopening provided, e.g., at a central point of the bottom of aninterchangeable fitted outer element. Portability is increased when theinflatable element(s) is/are deflated while enclosed within theinterchangeable fitted outer element and an opening of theinterchangeable fitted outer element is completely cinched and retainedin a closed state by a drawstring cord lock to form a convenientcarrying bag containing the inflatable bladder in a deflated state.Furthermore, the fully cinched drawstring can facilitate portability asa carrying handle.

The present invention further provides embodiments of an inflatablecushion which facilitates a higher level of portability throughfacilitation of an oral inflation capability. Portability is increasedwhen a user can easily deploy and redeploy an inflatable cushionaccording to the present invention without the aid of a pneumaticinflation device. However, where required for user safety, or in theinterest of user preference or the environment within which theinflatable cushion is deployed, inflation valves that do require apneumatic inflation device can be employed.

The present invention further provides embodiments of an inflatablecushion which facilitates a higher level of adaptability.

The present invention further provides embodiments of an inflatablecushion which facilitates a higher level of adaptability throughfacilitation of inflatable elements of differing configurations offeringdiffering levels of support, facilitating an inflatable cushion that canbe adapted to support users of differing sizes and weight.

The present invention further provides embodiments of an inflatablecushion which facilitates a higher level of adaptability throughfacilitation of interchangeable fitted outer elements. By allowing thepressure formed between an outer wall of an inflatable element and aninner wall of the interchangeable fitted outer element to retain theinterchangeable fitted outer element in a stable position, adherence tothe inflatable element through adhesive, or other means that would weld,vulcanize or otherwise permanently secure the interchangeable fittedouter element to the inflatable element is not required. Aninterchangeable fitted outer element provides the ability to adapt thepresent invention to reflect the environment within which it isdeployed.

The present invention further provides embodiments of an inflatablecushion which facilitates a higher level of adaptability where thetopology and configuration of the interchangeable fitted outer elementare modular, dynamic, and unique and when combined with the appropriateartwork, presents an inflatable cushion that can serve not only as apromotional platform, but also reflect the environment within which itis deployed. An interchangeable fitted outer element can possess artworkthat serves, e.g., as a map of the main features of an event; the courselayout at a golf tournament; the layout of main attractions andfacilities at fairs or other events, etc. An interchangeable fittedouter element's topology, configuration and artwork can possess theappearance of real-life items that relate to the environment withinwhich it is being deployed, e.g., a racing tire at racing events. Theinterchangeable fitted outer element topology, configuration, andartwork can possess the appearance of the venue within which the eventis being held, for example, the top of the interchangeable fitted outerelement can contain contoured foam or gel pads that resemble the top ofa domed structure within which the event is being held. Aninterchangeable fitted outer element possessing differing topology,configuration, and artwork facilitate the adaptation of an inflatablecushion to reflect the environment within which it is deployed andexpands the utility of an inflatable cushion beyond a specificenvironment.

The present invention further provides embodiments of an inflatablecushion which facilitates a higher level of adaptability throughfacilitation of interchangeable fitted outer elements that are widelyavailable through multiple web-site domains on the World Wide Web andother methods of distribution, thereby allowing the user to easilyacquire the configuration of the interchangeable fitted outer elementthat will adapt the inflatable cushion to their specific needs and meetthe requirements of the environment within which it is deployed.

The present invention further provides embodiments of an inflatablecushion which facilitates a higher level of adaptability through thefacilitation of a free-standing design. A free-standing design allowsthe user to adapt to shifts in the surrounding environment withouthaving to constantly adjust frames, straps or other anchoring methodspermanently secured to the inflatable cushion and employed to secure theinflatable cushion to the supporting surface; moreover, a free-standingdesign that does not incorporate a permanently secured anchoring methoddoes not impose on the personal space of others within the area ofdeployment.

The present invention further provides embodiments of an inflatablecushion which facilitates a higher level of adaptability through thefacilitation of a free-standing inflatable cushion that incorporates amulti-point anchoring method. Anchor points incorporated at multiplelocations on the interchangeable fitted outer element, or molded atmultiple locations on an inflatable element and accessible through theinterchangeable fitted outer element provide the user with the option ofanchoring the inflatable cushion to the supporting surface whenrequired. Through employment of an independent strap, bungee cord, orother means that can be laced or inserted through the anchor points, theuser is provided the option to secure the free-standing inflatablecushion to the supporting surface. The incorporation of a multi-pointanchoring method removes the need to permanently adhere an anchoringmethod capability to the inflatable cushion that may otherwise interferewith portability. The multi-point anchoring method provides the userwith the option of adapting a free-standing inflatable cushion to theenvironment within which it is deployed when securing the inflatablecushion to the supporting surface is required due to safety or otherreasons.

The present invention further provides embodiments of an inflatablecushion which facilitates a higher level of adaptability throughfacilitation of an interchangeable fitted outer element thatincorporates a drawstring secured at the circumference of a permanentopening provided, e.g., at a central point of the bottom of aninterchangeable fitted outer element. The drawstring facilitatesadaptation of the supporting surface to the user's personal comfort byallowing the user to cinch the interchangeable fitted outer elementtighter around the fully inflated bladder, thereby providing a tightersupporting surface upon which a portion of the user's body will besupported.

The present invention further provides embodiments of an inflatablecushion which facilitates a higher level of adaptability throughfacilitation of an oral inflation capability. Adaptability is increasedwhen a user can make adjustments to the level of inflation based onpersonal preference without the aid of a pneumatic inflation device.However, where required for user safety, or in the interest of userpreference or the environment within which the inflatable cushion isdeployed, inflation valves that do require a pneumatic inflation devicecan be employed.

The present invention further provides embodiments of an inflatablecushion which facilitates a higher level of reusability.

The present invention further provides embodiments of an inflatablecushion which facilitates a higher level of reusability throughdurability in construction. Fabrication and manufacture of an inflatablecushion using flexible rubberized, plastic, vinyl, coated fabric andweather-resistant durable high-strength fabrics, combine to produce aninflatable cushion that can be deployed repeatedly over a relativelylong period of time.

The present invention further provides embodiments of an inflatablecushion which facilitates a higher level of reusability throughfacilitation of interchangeable fitted outer elements. Though durable inconstruction, the inevitable wear and tear during deployment will causeeither the original interchangeable fitted outer element or an originalinflatable element to wear out prior to the other. Interchangeablefitted outer elements increase the reusability of devices in accordancewith the present invention by allowing the original inflatableelement(s) to remain in service after the original interchangeablefitted outer element has been replaced. In cases where an originalinflatable element is irreparably damaged, the original interchangeablefitted outer element can remain in service after the damaged inflatableelement has been replaced.

The present invention further provides embodiments of an inflatablecushion which facilitates a higher level of reusability through thefacilitation of an interchangeable fitted outer element thatincorporates a drawstring secured at the circumference of a permanentopening provided, e.g., at a central point of the bottom of aninterchangeable fitted outer element. The drawstring allows the user tocompensate for stretching that typically occurs to the interchangeablefitted outer element, particularly when it comes under constant pressurefrom supporting a portion of the user's body. The drawstring allows theuser to cinch the interchangeable fitted outer element tighter aroundthe fully inflated inflatable element(s), thereby retaining a tightersupporting surface upon which a portion of the user's body will besupported and allowing the interchangeable fitted outer element toremain in service for a longer period of time, increasing the number oftimes the interchangeable fitted outer element can be reused or deployedwith the inflatable cushion.

The present invention further provides embodiments of an inflatablecushion which facilitates a higher level of reusability through theprevention of theft. The preceding objects that relate to an increase inthe level of portability also facilitate provision of an inflatablecushion that can accompany the user when temporary movement is required,reducing the likelihood of theft, and increasing the number of times theinflatable cushion can be reused or deployed.

These features together with other features and the capabilities theyfacilitate, reside in the details of construction and operation morefully disclosed, claimed, and referenced within the enclosed drawings,where numerals are employed to refer to like parts throughout.

Embodiments according to the present invention can include any one ofthe features described above, or any desired combination of suchfeatures.

The invention may be more fully understood with reference to theaccompanying drawings and the following detailed description of theinvention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES

FIG. 1A is a top view of a first embodiment of an inflatable cushionaccording to present invention, in which the configuration facilitates adisc partially enclosed by a two-panel interchangeable fitted outerelement.

FIG. 1B is a bottom view of the first embodiment.

FIG. 1C is a sectional view of the first embodiment.

FIG. 2A is a top view of a second embodiment of an inflatable cushionaccording to the present invention, in which the configurationfacilitates an annular tube partially enclosed by a two-panelinterchangeable fitted outer element.

FIG. 2B is a bottom view of the second embodiment.

FIG. 2C is a sectional view of the second embodiment.

FIG. 3A is a top view of a third embodiment of an inflatable cushionaccording to the present invention, in which the configurationfacilitates an annular tube with an interior cushion partially enclosedby a two-panel interchangeable fitted outer element.

FIG. 3B is a bottom view of the third embodiment.

FIG. 3C is a sectional view of the third embodiment.

FIG. 4A is a top view of an embodiment of an inflatable cushionaccording to the present invention, in which the configuration canfacilitate any of the types of inflatable elements according to thepresent invention, shown here as a disc partially enclosed by atwo-panel interchangeable fitted outer element.

FIG. 4B is a bottom view of an embodiment of an inflatable cushionaccording to the present invention, in which the configuration canfacilitate any of the types of inflatable elements according to thepresent invention, shown here as an annular tube partially enclosed by atwo-panel interchangeable fitted outer element with a central bottomopening.

FIG. 4C is a bottom view of an embodiment of an inflatable cushionaccording to the present invention, in which the configuration canfacilitate any of the types of inflatable elements according to thepresent invention, shown here as an annular tube with an interiorcushion partially enclosed by a two-panel interchangeable fitted outerelement with a central bottom opening where the circumference of thecentral bottom opening facilitates a drawstring.

FIG. 4D is a top perspective view of an embodiment of an inflatablecushion according to the present invention partially enclosed by atwo-panel interchangeable fitted outer element, where anchoring devicesare secured to the interchangeable fitted outer element.

FIG. 4E is a top perspective view of an embodiment of an inflatablecushion according to the present invention partially enclosed by atwo-panel interchangeable fitted outer element, where anchoring devicesare secured to the interchangeable fitted outer element.

FIG. 4F is a top perspective view of an embodiment of an inflatablecushion according to the present invention partially enclosed by atwo-panel interchangeable fitted outer element, where anchoring devicesare secured to an inflatable element and are accessible through theinterchangeable fitted outer element.

FIG. 4G is a front view of an embodiment of an inflatable cushionaccording to the present invention partially enclosed by a two-panelinterchangeable fitted outer element.

FIG. 4H is a rear view of an embodiment of an inflatable cushion of thepresent invention partially enclosed by a two-panel interchangeablefitted outer element.

FIG. 5A is a top view of an embodiment of an inflatable cushionaccording to the present invention where the configuration facilitatesany of the types of inflatable elements according to the presentinvention, shown here as an annular tube partially enclosed by athree-panel interchangeable fitted outer element.

FIG. 5B is a bottom view of an embodiment of an inflatable cushionaccording to the present invention where the configuration facilitatesany of the types of inflatable elements according to the presentinvention, shown here as an annular tube with an interior cushionpartially enclosed by a three-panel interchangeable fitted outer elementwith a central bottom opening.

FIG. 5C is a bottom view of an embodiment of an inflatable cushionaccording to the present invention where the configuration facilitatesany of the types of inflatable elements according to the presentinvention, shown here as a disc partially enclosed by a three-panelinterchangeable fitted outer element with a central bottom opening wherethe circumference of the central bottom opening facilitates adrawstring.

FIG. 5D is a top perspective view of an embodiment of an inflatablecushion according to the present invention partially enclosed by athree-panel interchangeable fitted outer element, where anchoringdevices are secured to the interchangeable fitted outer element.

FIG. 5E is a top perspective view of an embodiment of an inflatablecushion according to the present invention partially enclosed by athree-panel interchangeable fitted outer element, where anchoringdevices are secured to the interchangeable fitted outer element.

FIG. 5F is a top perspective view of an embodiment of an inflatablecushion according to the present invention partially enclosed by athree-panel interchangeable fitted outer element, where anchoringdevices are secured to an inflatable element and are accessible throughthe interchangeable fitted outer element.

FIG. 5G is a front view of an embodiment of an inflatable cushionaccording to the present invention partially enclosed by a three-panelinterchangeable fitted outer element.

FIG. 5H is a rear view of an embodiment of an inflatable cushionaccording to the present invention partially enclosed by a three-panelinterchangeable fitted outer element.

FIG. 6A is a top view an embodiment of an inflatable cushion accordingto the present invention, in which the configuration can facilitate anyof the types of inflatable elements according to the present invention,shown here as a disc fully enclosed by a two-panel interchangeablefitted outer element.

FIG. 6B is a bottom view of an embodiment of an inflatable cushionaccording to the present invention where the configuration canfacilitate any of the types of inflatable elements according to thepresent invention, shown here as a disc fully enclosed by a two-panelinterchangeable fitted outer element.

FIG. 6C is a top perspective view of an embodiment of an inflatablecushion according to the present invention fully enclosed by a two-panelinterchangeable fitted outer element, where anchoring devices aresecured to the interchangeable fitted outer element.

FIG. 6D is a top perspective view of an embodiment of an inflatablecushion according to the present invention fully enclosed by a two-panelinterchangeable fitted outer element, where anchoring devices aresecured to the interchangeable fitted outer element.

FIG. 6E is a top perspective view of an embodiment of an inflatablecushion according to the present invention fully enclosed by a two-panelinterchangeable fitted outer element, where anchoring devices aresecured to an inflatable element and are accessible through theinterchangeable fitted outer element.

FIG. 6F is a front view of an embodiment of an inflatable cushionaccording to the present invention fully enclosed by a two-panelinterchangeable fitted outer element.

FIG. 6G is a rear view of an embodiment of an inflatable cushionaccording to the present invention fully enclosed by a two-panelinterchangeable fitted outer element with a securable access point atthe back.

FIG. 7A is a top view of an embodiment of an inflatable cushionaccording to the present invention, in which the configurationfacilitates any of the types of inflatable elements according to thepresent invention, shown here as a disc fully enclosed by a three-panelinterchangeable fitted outer element.

FIG. 7B is a bottom view of an embodiment of an inflatable cushionaccording to the present invention, in which the configurationfacilitates any of the types of inflatable elements according to thepresent invention, shown here as an annular tube with an interiorcushion fully enclosed by a three-panel interchangeable fitted outerelement.

FIG. 7C is a top perspective view of an embodiment of an inflatablecushion according to the present invention fully enclosed by athree-panel interchangeable fitted outer element, in which anchoringdevices are secured to the interchangeable fitted outer element.

FIG. 7D is a top perspective view of an embodiment of an inflatablecushion according to the present invention fully enclosed by athree-panel interchangeable fitted outer element, in which anchoringdevices are secured to the interchangeable fitted outer element.

FIG. 7E is a top perspective view of an embodiment of an inflatablecushion according to the present invention fully enclosed by athree-panel interchangeable fitted outer element, in which anchoringdevices are secured to an inflatable element and are accessible throughthe interchangeable fitted outer element.

FIG. 7F is a front view of an embodiment of an inflatable cushionaccording to the present invention fully enclosed by a three-panelinterchangeable fitted outer element.

FIG. 7G is a rear view of an embodiment of an inflatable cushionaccording to the present invention fully enclosed by a three-panelinterchangeable fitted outer element with a securable access point atthe back.

FIG. 8A is a top view of an embodiment of an inflatable cushionaccording to the present invention, in which the configuration canfacilitate any of the types of inflatable elements according to thepresent invention, and presents one possible configuration of thepromotional capabilities.

FIG. 8B is a top view of an embodiment of an inflatable cushionaccording to the present invention, in which the configuration canfacilitate any of the types of inflatable elements according to thepresent invention, and presents one example of how the baselineconfiguration of the interchangeable fitted outer element can bemodified to reflect the environment within which the inflatable cushionis deployed.

FIG. 8C is a top perspective view of an embodiment of an inflatablecushion according to the present invention, in which the configurationcan facilitate any of the types of inflatable bladder according to thepresent invention, and presents one example of how the topology of theinterchangeable fitted outer element can be modified to reflect theenvironment within which the inflatable cushion is deployed.

FIG. 8D is a top perspective view of an embodiment of an inflatablecushion according to the present invention, in which the inflatableelement is an annular tube, and presents one example of how the topologyof the interchangeable fitted outer element can be modified to reflectthe environment within which the inflatable cushion is deployed.

FIG. 8E is a bottom perspective view of an inflatable cushion accordingto the present invention, in which the inflatable element is a disc andis partially enclosed by a three-panel interchangeable fitted outerelement with a central bottom opening, where the circumference of thecentral bottom opening facilitates a drawstring, and presents oneexample of how the bottom of the disc can be molded to reflect theenvironment within which the inflatable cushion is deployed.

FIG. 8F is a bottom perspective view of an inflatable cushion accordingto the present invention, in which the inflatable element is a disc, andis partially enclosed by a three-panel interchangeable fitted outerelement with a central bottom opening, where the circumference of thecentral bottom opening facilitates a drawstring, and presents oneexample of how the bottom of the disc can be molded to fit thesupporting surface of the environment within which the inflatablecushion is deployed.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an inflatable cushion according to thepresent invention in a deflated and portable configuration making use ofthe interchangeable fitted outer element as a carrying bag when thecircumference of the central bottom opening of the interchangeablefitted outer element facilitates a drawstring.

FIGS. 10A-10J present examples of potential deployment and portabilityoptions of inflatable cushions according to the present invention withrespect to the needs of the user and the environment within which theinflatable cushion is deployed.

FIG. 11 is an illustration of an example of an “irregular toroidal”shape, as that expression is used herein.

Various structures which are hidden from view are, in some instances,depicted with dotted lines in some of the Figures herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

As noted above, in a first aspect of the present invention, there isprovided an inflatable cushion comprising at least a first inflatableelement, and an outer element, in which, when the first inflatableelement is substantially fully inflated, the outer element is in contactwith the first inflatable element and the outer element at leastpartially covers the first inflatable element. A representative exampleof an inflatable cushion in accordance with the first aspect of thepresent invention is depicted in FIGS. 1A, 1B and 1C, discussed in moredetail below (another such example is depicted in FIGS. 2A, 2B and 2C).

Each of the one or more inflatable elements can independently beconstructed of any desired material (or materials) which can be used toprovide an inflatable structure, a wide variety of which are well-knownby and available to persons of skill in the art. Representative examplesof materials out of which inflatable elements according to the presentinvention can be constructed include flexible rubberized plastic, vinylor coated fabric material. The material out of which the one or moreinflatable elements is constructed can have any desired degree ofstretchability, and can be of any color.

The outer element of each inflatable cushion according to the presentinvention can be constructed of any desired material (or materials), awide variety of which are well-known by and available to persons ofskill in the art. Representative examples of materials out of whichouter elements according to the present invention can be constructedinclude weather-resistant durable high-strength fabrics, e.g., nylon.The material out of which the outer element is constructed can have anydesired degree of stretchability, and can be of any color.

As noted above, in some embodiments according to the first aspect of thepresent invention, when the first inflatable element is substantiallyfully inflated, the first inflatable element has a regular toroidalshape. In other embodiments according to the first aspect of the presentinvention, when the first inflatable element is substantially fullyinflated, the first inflatable element has an irregular toroidal shape.For purposes of explanation, an example of an “irregular toroidal”shape, as that expression is used in the present specification, is shownin FIG. 11. As reflected by FIG. 11, where the “irregular toroidal”shape is defined in terms of being capable of being generated byrotating a planar curve about an axis 100, as noted above, in the caseof an irregular toroid, the planar curve can vary in shape as it isrotated about the axis—in addition, the distance between the planarcurve and the axis can vary, so long as the planar curve neverintersects the axis.

As noted above, in a second aspect of the present invention, there isprovided an inflatable cushion comprising at least first and secondinflatable elements, and an outer element. In this aspect of theinvention, the first inflatable element is substantially toroidal orirregular toroidal, and the first inflatable element and the secondinflatable element are shaped such that when the first inflatableelement and the second inflatable element are both substantially fullyinflated, an external surface of an inside region of the firstinflatable element abuts an external surface of the second inflatableelement. In the second aspect of the present invention, like the firstaspect of the present invention, when the first inflatable element issubstantially fully inflated, the outer element is in contact with thefirst inflatable element, and the outer element at least partiallycovers the first inflatable element.

The discussion above of the respective materials out of which theinflatable elements and the outer element can be constructed withrespect to the first aspect of the present invention is applicable tothe second aspect of the present invention as well. A representativeexample of an inflatable cushion in accordance with the second aspect ofthe present invention is depicted in FIGS. 3A, 3B and 3C, discussed inmore detail below, in which the first inflatable element issubstantially toroidal (and has a shape such that a cross-section of thetoroid is substantially circular).

As noted above, in some embodiments according to the first and secondaspects of the present invention, the outer element comprises at leasttwo panels connected to each other. In such embodiments, the two or morepanels can be connected to each other in any desired way, a wide varietyof which are well-known by and available to those skilled in the art. Arepresentative example of a way to connect such panels is by stitchingthem together. Alternatively, the outer element can be constructed as asingle element.

As noted above, in some embodiments according to the first and secondaspects of the present invention, the inflatable cushion furthercomprises at least one strap handle attached to the outer element. Eachof the one or more strap handles can independently be constructed of anydesired material (or materials) which can be used to provide a handle, awide variety of which are well-known by and available to persons ofskill in the art. Representative examples of materials out of whichstrap handles according to the present invention can be constructedinclude fabric material, flexible rubberized plastic and vinyl. The oneor more strap handles can be attached to the outer element in anydesired way, a wide variety of which are well-known by and available tothose skilled in the art. A representative example of a way to attachthe strap handles to the outer element is by stitching (such asdouble-stitching), particularly in instances where the strap handles aremade of fabric material.

As noted above, in some embodiments according to the first and secondaspects of the present invention, the inflatable cushion furthercomprises at least one reinforced handle attached to the firstinflatable element. Each of the one or more reinforced handles canindependently be constructed of any material (or materials) suitable forattachment to an inflatable element as defined above and suitable foruse as a handle, a wide variety of which are well-known by and availableto persons of skill in the art. Representative examples of materials outof which reinforced handles according to the present invention can beconstructed include flexible rubberized plastic, vinyl or molded PVC.

In embodiments which include one or more reinforced handles, the one ormore reinforced handles can be attached to an inflatable element of theinflatable cushion in any desired way, a wide variety of which arewell-known by and available to those skilled in the art. Representativeexamples of ways to provide reinforced handles which are attached to aninflatable element include (but are not limited to) integrally moldingthe handles and the inflatable element, heat welding the handles to theinflatable element, RF welding the handles to the inflatable element andreinforced molding the handles to the inflatable element.

In some embodiments which include one or more reinforced handles, atleast one reinforced handle extends through the outer element through ahandle access opening formed in the outer element. In such embodiments,the handle access opening formed in the outer element can be reinforced,if desired, in any suitable way, a variety of ways to providereinforcement being well-known by and available to those skilled in theart, e.g., by double stitching in the outer element around the handleaccess opening.

As noted above, in some embodiments according to the first and secondaspects of the present invention, the inflatable cushion furthercomprises at least one anchoring strap attached to the outer element.Each of the one or more anchoring straps can independently beconstructed of any desired material (or materials) which can be used toprovide an anchoring strap, a wide variety of which are well-known byand available to persons of skill in the art. Representative examples ofmaterials out of which anchoring straps according to the presentinvention can be constructed include fabric material, flexiblerubberized plastic and vinyl. The one or more reinforcing straps can beattached to the outer element in any desired way, a wide variety ofwhich are well-known by and available to those skilled in the art. Arepresentative example of a way to attach the reinforcing strap(s) tothe outer element is by stitching (such as double-stitching),particularly in instances where the reinforcing strap(s) are made offabric material.

As noted above, in some embodiments according to the first and secondaspects of the present invention, the inflatable cushion furthercomprises at least one reinforced grommet attached to the firstinflatable element. In such embodiments, the one or more reinforcedgrommets can be any desired kind of reinforced grommet formed from anysuitable material and suitable for attachment to an inflatable elementin the inflatable cushion, a wide variety of such grommets being knownby and available to those skilled in the art. Representative examples ofsuitable grommets include toroidal grommets constructed of rubber,flexible rubberized plastic, vinyl or molded PVC.

In embodiments which include one or more reinforced grommets, the one ormore reinforced grommets can be attached to an inflatable element of theinflatable cushion in any desired way, a wide variety of which arewell-known by and available to those skilled in the art. Representativeexamples of ways to provide reinforced grommets which are attached to aninflatable element include (but are not limited to) integrally moldingthe grommets and the inflatable element, heat welding the grommets tothe inflatable element, RF welding the grommets to the inflatableelement and reinforced molding the grommets to the inflatable element.

In some embodiments which include one or more reinforced grommets, atleast one reinforced grommet extends through the outer element through agrommet access opening formed in the outer element. In such embodiments,the grommet access opening formed in the outer element can bereinforced, if desired, in any suitable way, a variety of ways toprovide reinforcement being well-known by and available to those skilledin the art, e.g., by double stitching in the outer element around thegrommet access opening.

As noted above, in some embodiments according to the first and secondaspects of the present invention, the inflatable cushion furthercomprises a plurality of grommets positioned in the outer element. Asdescribed in more detail below, such grommets positioned in the outerelement can be used to anchor the inflatable cushion by feeding ananchoring element, e.g., a strap or a bungee cord, through the holesdefined by the grommets. In such embodiments, the one or more grommetscan be any desired kind of grommet formed from any suitable material andsuitable for attachment to the outer element in the inflatable cushion,a wide variety of such grommets being known by and available to thoseskilled in the art. Representative examples of suitable grommets includetoroidal grommets constructed of rubber, flexible rubberized plastic,vinyl or metal.

In embodiments which include one or more grommets positioned in theouter element, the one or more grommets can be attached to the outerelement in any desired way, a wide variety of which are well-known byand available to those skilled in the art. A representative example of away to attach such grommets to an outer element is by usingself-piercing grommets and corresponding punches, which are well-knownby and available to those skilled in the art.

As noted above, in the first and second aspects of the presentinvention, the outer element at least partially covers the firstinflatable element. In some embodiments of the first and second aspectsof the present invention, when the first inflatable element issubstantially fully inflated, the outer element covers greater than 50%of an outer surface area of the first inflatable element. In someembodiments of the first and second aspects of the present invention,the outer element substantially completely covers the outer surface areaof the first inflatable element.

In embodiments in which the outer element does not completely cover theinflatable element (or elements), the area (or areas) which is/are notcovered by the outer element is/are referred to herein as the opening(s)in the outer element. In such embodiments, the opening(s) formed in theouter element can be reinforced, if desired, in any suitable way, avariety of ways to provide reinforcement being well-known by andavailable to those skilled in the art, e.g., by double stitching in theouter element around the opening(s).

As noted above, in some embodiments according to the first and secondaspects of the present invention, the inflatable cushion furthercomprises at least one drawstring which, when at least the firstinflatable element is fully inflated or at least partially deflated andthe drawstring is pulled, cinches a peripheral region of the outerelement. By cinching when the inflatable element (or elements) is/arefully inflated, the outer element can be made to more tightly fit aroundthe inflatable element(s) (such functionality can extend the useful lifeof the outer element, e.g., by enabling it to function effectively evenafter it has stretched over time).

In some embodiments according to the first and second aspects of thepresent invention, the outer element includes at least one opening and adrawstring is provided which surrounds the opening. In such embodiments,when at least the first inflatable element is fully inflated or at leastpartially deflated and the drawstring is pulled, the drawstring cinchesa peripheral region of the outer element around the opening, therebyreducing the area of the opening. If the drawstring is pulled to asufficient extent, the opening is substantially closed, such that theouter element substantially defines and substantially surrounds aninternal space with a small hole adjacent to the peripheral region. Asabove, by cinching when the inflatable element (or elements) is/arefully inflated, the outer element can be made to more tightly fit aroundthe inflatable element(s) (such functionality can extend the useful lifeof the outer element, e.g., by enabling it to function effectively evenafter it has stretched over time).

In embodiments which include a drawstring, the drawstring can be held inplace in any suitable way, a variety of which are well-known to thoseskilled in the art. For example, in some embodiments, the drawstring canbe laced through grommets attached to the outer element spaced aroundthe opening, e.g., the drawstring can be laced such that it passes fromone side of the outer element to the other side, and vice-versa,alternatingly. In some embodiments, the material out of which the outerelement is made can be folded back on itself and stitched to itselfadjacent to the opening, thereby producing a tubular regionsubstantially encircling the opening except for a small gap, and thedrawstring can be positioned so as to extend through the entire tubularregion, with opposite ends of the drawstring exiting either end of thetubular region in the small gap, such that the ends of the drawstringare thereby accessible (similar to the drawstrings in cinchable trashbags or the drawstrings in conventional sweatpants).

In embodiments which include a drawstring, the drawstring can beconstructed of any desired material (or materials) which can be used toprovide a cinching function, a wide variety of materials and shapesbeing well-known by and available to those skilled in the art.Representative examples of materials out of which drawstrings accordingto the present invention can be constructed include fabric material,elastic material, flexible rubberized plastic or vinyl. The material outof which such drawstrings are constructed can have any desired degree ofstretchability.

As noted above, embodiments of the inflatable cushions according to thepresent invention can include valves through which fluid can be suppliedto, and/or exit from, the one or more inflatable elements. In suchembodiments, the valve(s) can be any suitable valve, a variety of whichare well-known by and available to those skilled in the art, and can beattached to the corresponding inflatable element at any desired locationand in any suitable way, a variety of ways being well-known by andavailable to those skilled in the art. The inflatable elements with suchvalves, can be orally inflatable or non-orally inflatable.

In some embodiments, at least one inflatable element has a valve whichextends through the outer element through a valve access opening formedin the outer element. In such embodiments, the valve access opening(s)formed in the outer element can be reinforced, if desired, in anysuitable way, a variety of ways to provide reinforcement beingwell-known by and available to those skilled in the art, e.g., by doublestitching in the outer element around the valve access opening(s).

In embodiments in which the outer element substantially completelycovers the inflatable element (or elements), the outer element caninclude an access point through which the at least one inflatableelement, in a partially or completely deflated state, can be insertedinto or removed from the outer element. Such an access point, whereprovided, can be of any suitable shape, e.g., a slot. Such an accesspoint, where provided, can be non-securable or can be securable with anysuitable means for securing, e.g., a zipper, buttons, Velcro®, or snaps.Any such means for securing can be attached to the outer element in anysuitable way, a variety of which are well-known to those of skill in theart, e.g., by stitching. In such embodiments, the access point and/orany buttonholes formed in the outer element can be reinforced, ifdesired, in any suitable way, a variety of ways to provide reinforcementbeing well-known by and available to those skilled in the art, e.g., bydouble stitching in the outer element around the access point or thebuttonholes.

In embodiments in which the outer element substantially completelycovers the inflatable element (or elements), the outer element cancomprise at least two panels connected to each other. In suchembodiments, the two or more panels can be connected to each other inany desired way, a wide variety of which are well-known by and availableto those skilled in the art. A representative example of a way toconnect such panels is by stitching them together.

In some embodiments in which the outer element substantially completelycovers the inflatable element (or elements), at least one inflatableelement has a valve which extends through the outer element through avalve access opening formed in the outer element. In such embodiments,the valve access opening(s) formed in the outer element can bereinforced, if desired, in any suitable way, a variety of ways toprovide reinforcement being well-known by and available to those skilledin the art, e.g., by double stitching in the outer element around thevalve access opening(s).

In some embodiments in which the outer element substantially completelycovers the inflatable element (or elements), there is not provided avalve which extends through the outer element. In such embodiments,there can be no valve access opening, or there can be a valve accessopening formed in the outer element—the reason a valve access openingmay be provided is so that the outer elements for such devices can bemanufactured in a way which is similar to or identical to the way thatouter elements are manufactured for embodiments which do have a valvewhich extends through the valve access opening.

As noted above, in some embodiments according to the first and secondaspects of the present invention, the inflatable cushion furthercomprises at least one pad attached to the outer element and/or to thefirst inflatable element. In such embodiments, the pad can be attachedto the outer element in any suitable way, a variety of which arewell-known to those of skill in the art, e.g., by stitching.

In some embodiments according to the first and second aspects of thepresent invention, at least a portion of the outer element can be formedof a porous material in order to provide breathability, especially inembodiments which comprise a toroidal inflatable element and noinflatable element positioned within the toroidal inflatable element.Persons of skill in the art are familiar with, and have access to, awide variety of suitable porous materials, any of which are suitable foruse in accordance with such embodiments.

As noted above, in a third aspect of the present invention, there isprovided a cushion comprising a bladder having an internal surface andan external surface. In some embodiments according to the third aspectof the present invention, the bladder is of a shape which, incross-section, resembles an anvil (see, e.g., the second inflatableelement in FIGS. 3A, 3B and 3C, in particular, FIG. 3C).

As noted above, in this third aspect of the present invention, theinternal surface of the bladder surrounds and defines an internal space.In this third aspect of the present invention, the external surface ofthe bladder comprises a first region, a second region and a peripheralregion extending peripherally around an entire periphery of the bladder,the peripheral region extending from the first region to the secondregion around the entire periphery.

The cushion according to the third aspect of the present invention canbe useful in a variety of situations, e.g., to convert a toroidalcushion (e.g., an inflatable toroidal cushion) into a disc-shapedcushion. In a representative example, an inflatable toroidal cushion(e.g., an inner tube) can be converted into a disc for recreational usein water, such as a disc which can function as a trampoline(analogously, a ski tube can be converted into a ski disc or a snow tubecan be converted into a snow disc).

As used herein, the term “substantially,” e.g., in the expressions“substantially disc-shaped”, “substantially elliptical”, “substantiallycircular”, “substantially toroidal”, “substantially surrounds”,“substantially semi-circular”, “substantially planar”, “substantiallyparallel”, “substantially completely covers”, “substantially closed”,and “substantially encircling” means at least about 95 correspondencewith the feature recited, e.g., “substantially parallel” means that twolines (or two planes) diverge from each other at most by an angle of 5%of 90 degrees, i.e., 4.5 degrees; “substantially planar” means that aplane defined by any trio of points in the structure and a planeconnecting any other trio of points in the structure define no anglegreater than 5% of 90 degrees, i.e., 4.5 degrees; “substantiallyelliptical” means that an ellipse can be drawn having the formulax²/a²+y²/b²=1, where imaginary axes can be drawn at a location where they coordinate of each point on the structure is within 0.95 to 1.05 timesthe value obtained by inserting the x coordinate of such point into suchformula; “substantially circular” means that a circle can be drawnhaving the formula X²+y²=1, where imaginary axes can be drawn at alocation where the y coordinate of each point on the structure is within0.95 to 1.05 times the value obtained by inserting the x coordinate ofsuch point into such formula; “substantially toroidal” means that the ycoordinate for each point on the structure is within 0.95 to 1.05 timesthe value obtained by inserting the x coordinate of such point into aformula for a toroid; “substantially semi-circular” means that asemi-circle can be drawn having the formula x²+y²=1, where x is ≧0, andwhere imaginary axes can be drawn at a location where the y coordinateof each point on the structure is within 0.95 to 1.05 times the valueobtained by inserting the x coordinate of such point into such formula;the expressions “substantially surrounds”,“substantially completelycovers”, “substantially closed”, and “substantially encircling” meanthat the structure which is substantially surrounded, substantiallycompletely covered, substantially encircled or substantially closed isexposed over not more than 5% of its surface area or length. Theexpression “substantially disc-shaped” means that the structure has apair of smooth surfaces which are planar or non-planar and which extendin two dimensions at least twice as far as the structure extends in thethird dimension.

Three representative embodiments of the present invention are depictedin FIGS. 1A-1C, FIGS. 2A-2C and FIGS. 3A-3C, respectively. Each of theseembodiments relate to an inflatable cushion (10) comprising aninflatable bladder and an outer element, where the inflatable bladder isin the form of either (1) a first inflatable element in the form of adisc (22)(FIGS. 1A-1C), (2) a first inflatable element in the form of asubstantially toroidal annular tube (122)(FIGS. 2A-2C), or (3) acombination of a first inflatable element in the form of a substantiallytoroidal annular tube (122) and a second inflatable element (222) in theform of an interior cushion (222) (FIGS. 3A-3C), the inflatable bladderbeing constructed of a flexible rubberized, plastic, vinyl, or coatedfabric material of any color, and the outer element is in the form of aninterchangeable fitted outer cover (14). In these embodiments, theinflatable bladder and the interchangeable fitted outer cover (14) areintegrated to form a supporting surface (18). The inflatable bladder,while in a partially or completely deflated state, is inserted through apermanent opening (24) at the bottom of the interchangeable fitted outercover (14) and subsequently inflated at the inflation valve (20) that isaccessible through the interchangeable fitted outer cover (14) causingthe interchangeable fitted outer cover (14) to fit securely around thefully inflated bladder. When the inflatable bladder includes an interiorcushion (222) as shown in FIG. 3A, FIG. 3B and FIG. 3C, the interiorcushion (222) is subsequently inflated at the inflation valve (38)accessible through the bottom of the interchangeable fitted outer cover(14).

A first embodiment of the present invention as shown in FIGS. 1A-1Crelates to an inflatable cushion (10), where the inflatable bladder isin the form of an inflatable disc (22). FIG. 1C is enlarged (relative toFIGS. 1A and 1B) so that the components shown in FIG. 1C are easier tosee. The top panel (54) of the interchangeable fitted outer cover (14)covers the top of the disc (22) to form a supporting surface (18). Thepartially or completely deflated disc (22) is inserted through apermanent opening (24) at the bottom panel (56) of the interchangeablefitted outer cover (14) and subsequently inflated at the inflation valve(20) that is accessible through the interchangeable fitted outer cover(14), causing the interchangeable fitted outer cover (14) to fitsecurely around the fully inflated disc (22).

A second embodiment of the present invention as shown in FIGS. 2A-2Crelates to an inflatable cushion (10), where the inflatable bladder isin the form of an inflatable annular tube (122). FIG. 2C is enlarged(relative to FIGS. 2A and 2B) so that the components shown in FIG. 2Care easier to see. The top panel (54) of the interchangeable fittedouter cover (14) covers the interior (12) of the annular tube (122) toform a supporting surface (18). The deflated annular tube (122) isinserted through a permanent opening (24) at the bottom panel (56) ofthe interchangeable fitted outer cover (14) and subsequently inflated atthe inflation valve (20) that is accessible through the interchangeablefitted outer cover (14), causing the interchangeable fitted outer cover(14) to fit securely around the fully inflated annular tube (122).

A third embodiment of the present invention as shown in FIGS. 3A-3Crelates to an inflatable cushion (10), where the inflatable bladder isin the form of an inflatable annular tube (122) and interior cushion(222) that fills the interior (12) of the annular tube (122). FIG. 3C isenlarged (relative to FIGS. 3A and 3B) so that the components shown inFIG. 3C are easier to see. The external perimeter (36) of the interiorcushion (222) rests top dead center of the top and bottom of theinflated annular tube (122), and the internal exterior wall of theinterior cushion (222) rests along the external interior wall of theinterior (12) of the annular tube (122). The top panel (54) of theinterchangeable fitted outer cover (14) covers the top of the annulartube (122) and interior cushion (222) to form a supporting surface (18).The partially or completely deflated annular tube (122) and interiorcushion (222) are inserted through a permanent opening (24) at thebottom panel (56) of the interchangeable fitted outer cover (14). Theannular tube (122) is subsequently inflated at the inflation valve (20)that is accessible through the interchangeable fitted outer cover (14),causing the interchangeable fitted outer cover (14) to fit securelyaround the fully inflated annular tube (122) and deflated interiorcushion (222). The interior cushion (222) is subsequently inflated atthe inflation valve (38) accessible through the bottom of theinterchangeable fitted outer cover (14).

In a specific example of an inflatable cushion in accordance with FIGS.3A-3C, the interior cushion (222) is more stretchable than the annulartube (122) (e.g., the interior cushion can be made of a coated fabric,such as neoprene while the annular tube is made of a vinyl material,e.g., PVC), such that as the interior cushion (222) and the annular tube(122) are inflated (and after they have been inflated), the interiorcushion (222) pushes on the annular tube (122). That is, in such aspecific example, the size of the interior cushion (222) expands morereadily or rapidly than the annular tube (122), such that the annulartube (122) is not moving away from the interior cushion (222) morerapidly than the interior cushion (222) is expanding, whereby pressingcontact is made between the interior cushion (222) and the annular tube(122).

Representative embodiments of the interchangeable fitted outer cover(14) are shown in FIGS. 4A through 4H. The interchangeable fitter outercovers (14) shown in FIGS. 4A-4H are two-panel designs constructed fromtwo equally sized circular panels (except that there is an opening (24)in one of the panels, as discussed below) of a weather-resistant durablehigh-strength fabric of any color. The top panel (54) is secured to thebottom panel (56) at their external peripheries as designated by aperforated line (58), with a circular portion removed from the center ofthe bottom panel (56) to form a permanent opening (24) granting accessto the interior of the interchangeable fitted outer cover (14). The toppanel (54) of the interchangeable fitted outer cover (14) serves as asupporting surface (18) when the interchangeable fitted outer cover (14)is fit securely around the fully inflated bladder. The interchangeablefitted outer cover (14) provides for a strap handle (26) secured to theinterchangeable fitted outer cover (14) or as shown in FIG. 4F, a moldedreinforced handle (126) is secured to the inflatable bladder and isaccessible through the interchangeable fitted outer cover (14). Theinterchangeable fitted outer cover (14) accommodates versions of amulti-point anchoring method where separate straps (16) or a pairing ofgrommets (116) are secured to the interchangeable fitted outer cover(14), or as shown in FIG. 4F, molded reinforced grommets (216) aresecured to the inflatable bladder and are accessible through theinterchangeable fitted outer cover (14). As shown in FIG. 4C, a variantof this version of the interchangeable fitted outer cover (14D)facilitates a drawstring (34) capability that can be used to cinch theinterchangeable fitted outer cover (14D) tighter around the inflatablebladder and held in place with a cord lock (32). In the embodimentdepicted in FIG. 4C, the drawstring is the type which is positioned soas to extend through a tubular region formed by having the material outof which the outer element is made folded back on itself and stitched toitself adjacent to the opening, with opposite ends of the drawstringexiting either end of the tubular region in a small gap (33).

Representative embodiments of the interchangeable fitted outer cover(114) are shown in FIGS. 5A through 5H. The interchangeable fitted outercovers shown in FIGS. 5A-5H are three-panel designs constructed fromthree panels of a weather-resistant durable high-strength fabric of anycolor. The top panel (44) and the bottom panel (46) are two equallysized circular panels and extend across the top and bottom of theinflatable bladder, respectively. The center panel (48) is of a lengthequal to that of the circumference of the inflatable bladder and coversthe inflatable bladder's external wall. The external periphery of thetop panel (44) is secured to the top external periphery of the centerpanel (48) as designated by a perforated line (28). The externalperiphery of the bottom panel (46) is secured to the bottom externalperiphery of the center panel (48) as designated by a perforated line(30), with a circular portion removed from the center of the bottompanel (46) to form a permanent opening (24) granting access to theinterior of the interchangeable fitted outer cover (114). The top panel(44) of the interchangeable fitted outer cover (114) serves as asupporting surface (18) when the interchangeable fitted outer cover(114) is fit securely around the fully inflated bladder. Theinterchangeable fitted outer cover (114) provides for a strap handle(26) secured to the interchangeable fitted outer cover (114) or as shownin FIG. 5F, a molded reinforced handle (126) is secured to theinflatable bladder and is accessible through the interchangeable fittedouter cover (114). The interchangeable fitted outer cover (114)accommodates versions of a multi-point anchoring method where separatestraps (16) or a pairing of grommets (116) are secured to theinterchangeable fitted outer cover (114) or as shown in FIG. 5F, moldedreinforced grommets (216) are secured to the inflatable bladder and areaccessible through the interchangeable fitted outer cover (114). Asshown in FIG. 5C, a variant of this version of the interchangeablefitted outer cover (114D) facilitates a drawstring (134) capability thatcan be used to cinch the interchangeable fitted outer cover (114D)tighter around the inflatable bladder and held in place with a cord lock(32). In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 4C, the drawstring is the typewhich is laced through grommets attached to the outer element spacedaround the opening, such that the drawstring passes from one side of theouter element to the other side, and vice-versa, alternatingly.

Representative embodiments of the interchangeable fitted outer cover(214) are shown in FIGS. 6A through 6G. The interchangeable fitted outercovers shown in FIGS. 6A-6G are two-panel designs constructed from twoequally sized circular panels of a weather-resistant durablehigh-strength fabric of any color that completely enclose the fullyinflated bladder. The top panel (54) is secured to the bottom panel (56)at their external peripheries as designated by a perforated line (58),with a securable access point (50) at the back granting access to theinterior of the interchangeable fitted outer cover (214). The top panel(54) of the interchangeable fitted outer cover (214) serves as asupporting surface (18) when the interchangeable fitted outer cover(214) is fit securely around the fully inflated bladder. The bottompanel (56) of an interchangeable fitted outer cover (214) that fullyencloses an inflatable bladder provides a small opening (40) at thecenter, facilitating access to an inflation valve (not shown) when anannular tube and interior cushion configuration is incorporated as theinflatable bladder. The interchangeable fitted outer cover (214)provides for a strap handle (26) secured to the interchangeable fittedouter cover (214) or as shown in FIG. 6E, a molded reinforced handle(126) is secured to the inflatable bladder and is accessible through theinterchangeable fitted outer cover (214). The interchangeable fittedouter cover (214) accommodates versions of a multi-point anchoringmethod where separate straps (16) or a pairing of grommets (116) aresecured to the interchangeable fitted outer cover (214), or as shown inFIG. 6E, molded reinforced grommets (216) are secured to the inflatablebladder and are accessible through the interchangeable fitted outercover (214).

Representative embodiments of the interchangeable fitted outer cover(314) are shown in FIGS. 7A through 7G. The interchangeable fitted outercovers shown in FIGS. 7A-7G are three-panel designs constructed fromthree panels of a weather-resistant durable high-strength fabric of anycolor that fully enclose the inflatable bladder. The top panel (44) andthe bottom panel (46) are two equally sized circular panels and extendacross the top and bottom of the inflatable bladder, respectively. Thecenter panel (48) is of a length equal to that of the circumference ofthe inflatable bladder and covers the inflatable bladder's externalwall. The external periphery of the top panel (44) is secured to the topexternal periphery of the center panel (48) as designated by aperforated line (28). The external periphery of the bottom panel (46) issecured to the bottom external periphery of the center panel (48) asdesignated by a perforated line (30), with a securable access point (50)at the back granting access to the interior of the interchangeablefitted outer cover (314). The top panel (44) of the interchangeablefitted outer cover (314) serves as a supporting surface (18) when theinterchangeable fitted outer cover (314) is fit securely around thefully inflated bladder. The bottom panel (46) of an interchangeablefitted outer cover (314) that fully encloses an inflatable bladderprovides a small opening (40) at the center, facilitating access to aninflation valve (38) when an annular tube and interior cushionconfiguration is incorporated as the inflatable bladder. Theinterchangeable fitted outer cover (314) provides for a strap handle(26) secured to the interchangeable fitted outer cover (314) or as shownin FIG. 7E, a molded reinforced handle (126) is secured to theinflatable bladder and is accessible through the interchangeable fittedouter cover (314). The interchangeable fitted outer cover (314)accommodates versions of a multi-point anchoring method where separatestraps (16) or a pairing of grommets (116) are secured to theinterchangeable fitted outer cover (314) or as shown in FIG. 7E, moldedreinforced grommets (216) are secured to the inflatable bladder and areaccessible through the interchangeable fitted outer cover (314).

All versions of the interchangeable fitted outer cover (114) facilitatepromotional capabilities. FIG. 8A discloses one configuration ofpromotional features that include, but are not limited to, text,emblems, logos, mascots, slogans, web addresses and other forms ofartwork that can be placed on the interchangeable fitted outer cover(114) of the inflatable cushion (10). One possible configuration of thepromotional features and artwork includes, but is not limited to, a sidepanel (48), a top outer ring (62), a top centralized ring (64), and atop center area (66).

All versions of the interchangeable fitted outer cover (114) facilitatere-configuration of the baseline construction thereby adapting theinflatable cushion (10) to reflect the environment within which it isdeployed. FIG. 8B provides an example where the top panel (44) formingthe supporting surface (18) is re-configured into two separate panels.The internal periphery of the top outside panel (60) is secured to theexternal periphery of the top inside panel (88) as designated by aperforated line (52) constructing a top panel (44) to provide asupporting surface (18). The external periphery of the top panel (44) issecured to the top external periphery of the center panel (48) asdesignated by the perforated line (28). In this case, the top panel (44)is constructed of two separate panels; a top external panel (60) of thesame color as the center panel (48), and a top inside panel (88)possessing the appropriate artwork. The sub-panels 60 and 88 combine toprovide an inflatable cushion (10) with a top panel (44) that not onlyforms a supporting surface (18) but where the supporting surface (18)takes on the appearance of a real-life item that is a part of theenvironment with which it is deployed. FIG. 8B provides one example ofan inflatable cushion (10) that possesses the appearance of a wheel witha tire to reflect an automotive environment.

As noted above, all versions of the interchangeable fitted outer cover(114) facilitate re-configuration of the baseline construction, therebyadapting the inflatable cushion (10) to reflect the environment withinwhich it is deployed. FIG. 8C provides an example where the top panel(44) forming the supporting surface (18) is re-configured by replacingthe top panel (44) with a contoured gel or foam pad. The externalperiphery of the top panel (44) containing the contoured pad is securedto the top external periphery of the center panel (48) as designated bya perforated line (28). Re-configuration of the interchangeable fittedouter cover (114) topology combined with appropriate artwork as shown inFIG. 8C, facilitates adaptation of the inflatable cushion (10) with atop panel (44) that not only forms a supporting surface (18) but wherethe supporting surface (18) takes on the appearance of the venue orenvironment within which it is being deployed. FIG. 8C provides oneexample of an inflatable cushion (10) that possesses the appearance of adomed structure environment within which the event is being held.Moreover, the top panel in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 8C adds tothe comfort level of the inflatable cushion (10) when the top panel (44)consists of a gel or foam pad.

FIG. 8D provides one example of an inflatable cushion (10) that has beenre-configured to allow for air flow within an outdoor environment ofextreme heat. Moreover, the re-configured cushion of the embodimentdepicted in FIG. 8D adds to the comfort level of the inflatable cushion(10). The top panel (44) forming the supporting surface (18) over theinterior opening (12) of an inflated annular tube (122) is re-configuredby replacing the top panel (44) with a high-strength porous fabric. Theexternal periphery of the top panel (44) constructed of a high-strengthporous fabric is secured to the top external periphery of the centerpanel (48) as designated by a perforated line (28). Re-configuration ofthe interchangeable fitted outer cover (114), as shown in FIG. 8D,facilitates adaptation of the inflatable cushion (10) with a top panel(44) that not only forms a supporting surface (18) but where thesupporting surface (18) reflects the venue or environment within whichit is being deployed.

The process of constructing an inflatable bladder from flexiblerubberized, plastic, vinyl or coated fabric material usually requiresradio frequency (RF) welding. Radio frequency welding, sometimes knownas dielectric welding or high frequency welding, is the process offusing materials together by applying radio frequency energy to the areato be joined. The resulting weld can be as strong as the originalworkpiece materials; however, the inflatable bladder may also beconstructed using rotational molding. Rotational molding is a versatileprocess that allows the manufacture of hollow forms from both flexibleand rigid materials. Rotationally molded, or rotomolded parts are ofone-piece construction, possess uniform wall thickness, and arevirtually stress free. The employment of rotational molding providesinflatable bladders of one-piece construction; moreover, rotationalmolding expands the ability to re-configure the one-piece constructionof the inflatable bladder through the possible inclusion of additionalfeatures such as the incorporation of a molded inflatable backrest.Referring now specifically to FIG. 8E and FIG. 8F, the base of theinflatable bladder configured as a disc (22) can be rotomolded in such amanor as to allow for securing the inflatable cushion to a supportingstructure or to incorporate a capability to retain an external object.FIG. 8E demonstrates where an external object could be retained at thebase of a rotomolded inflatable disc (22), in this case a drink enclosedby a coozi could be retained at the bottom of the inflatable cushion.FIG. 8F demonstrates where the base of a rotomolded inflatable disc (22)could be configured so that it could be integrated with a supportingsurface, in this case a bicycle seat.

Each of the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 1A-8F are depicted in aninflated state.

The interchangeable fitted outer cover (114D) as shown in FIG. 9facilitates a portability feature when the interchangeable fitted outercover (114D) incorporates a drawstring (34) capability. When theinflatable bladder is placed in a partially or completely deflated statewhile enclosed within the interchangeable fitted outer cover (114D), andthe drawstring (34) is cinched at the permanent opening (24) to a closedstate, and held in that position with a cord lock (32), theinterchangeable fitted outer cover (114D) forms a convenient carryingbag containing the deflated bladder; moreover, the drawstring (34)facilitates portability as a carrying handle.

The inflatable cushion facilitates deployment within numerousenvironments. FIGS. 10A-10G present a subset of the many perceiveddeployments for the inflatable cushion with respect to the environment,and relative to user needs. FIGS. 10H-10J also demonstrate the portablecapabilities facilitated by the differing configurations of theinflatable cushion (the capability depicted in FIG. 10H shows theinflatable cushion positioned within a user's pocket).

Any two or more structural parts of the cushions described herein can beintegrated. Any structural part of the cushions described herein can beprovided in two or more parts which are held together, if necessary.

1. An inflatable cushion comprising: at least a first inflatableelement; and an outer element, wherein when said first inflatableelement is substantially fully inflated: said outer element is incontact with said first inflatable element; and said outer element atleast partially covers said first inflatable element.
 2. An inflatablecushion as recited in claim 1, wherein when said first inflatableelement is substantially fully inflated, said outer element coversgreater than 50% of an outer surface area of said first inflatableelement.
 3. An inflatable cushion as recited in claim 1, wherein whensaid first inflatable element is substantially fully inflated: saidinflatable element is substantially disc-shaped; at least a firstimaginary cross-section of an outer surface of said inflatable elementis substantially elliptical; and at least a second imaginarycross-section of said outer surface of said inflatable element issubstantially circular and is perpendicular to said first imaginarycross-section.
 4. An inflatable cushion as recited in claim 1, whereinwhen said first inflatable element is substantially fully inflated, saidfirst inflatable element has a substantially toroidal shape.
 5. Aninflatable cushion as recited in claim 4, further comprising a secondinflatable element, said first inflatable element and said secondinflatable element being shaped such that when said first inflatableelement and said second inflatable element are both substantially fullyinflated, an external surface of an inside region of said firstinflatable element abuts an external surface of said second inflatableelement.
 6. An inflatable cushion as recited in claim 5, wherein whensaid first inflatable element and said second inflatable element areboth substantially fully inflated, said second inflatable element issurrounded peripherally by said first inflatable element.
 7. Aninflatable cushion as recited in claim 4, wherein when said firstinflatable element is substantially fully inflated, said firstinflatable element is a toroidal shape of substantially circularcross-sectional shape.
 8. An inflatable cushion as recited in claim 1,wherein when said first inflatable element is substantially fullyinflated, said first inflatable element has an irregular toroidal shape.9. An inflatable cushion as recited in claim 8, further comprising asecond inflatable element, said first inflatable element and said secondinflatable element being shaped such that when said first inflatableelement and said second inflatable element are both substantially fullyinflated, an external surface of an inside region of said firstinflatable element abuts an external surface of said second inflatableelement.
 10. An inflatable cushion as recited in claim 9, wherein whensaid first inflatable element and said second inflatable element areboth substantially fully inflated, said second inflatable element issurrounded peripherally by said first inflatable element.
 11. Aninflatable cushion as recited in claim 1, wherein said outer elementcomprises at least two panels connected to each other.
 12. An inflatablecushion as recited in claim 1, wherein said outer element issubstantially non-stretchable.
 13. An inflatable cushion as recited inclaim 1, further comprising at least one strap handle attached to saidouter element.
 14. An inflatable cushion as recited in claim 1, furthercomprising at least one reinforced handle attached to said firstinflatable element.
 15. An inflatable cushion as recited in claim 1,further comprising at least one anchoring strap attached to said outerelement.
 16. An inflatable cushion as recited in claim 1, furthercomprising at least one reinforced grommet attached to said firstinflatable element.
 17. An inflatable cushion as recited in claim 1,further comprising a plurality of grommets positioned in said outerelement.
 18. An inflatable cushion as recited in claim 1, wherein whensaid first inflatable element is substantially fully inflated, saidouter element comprises a peripheral edge which defines an opening, anda plurality of grommets are positioned in said outer element adjacent tosaid peripheral edge.
 19. An inflatable cushion as recited in claim 18,wherein said grommets are positioned substantially evenly spaced aroundan entirety of said opening.
 20. An inflatable cushion as recited inclaim 1, further comprising at least one drawstring which, when saidfirst inflatable element is at least partially deflated and saiddrawstring is pulled, cinches a peripheral edge of said outer element,whereby said outer element substantially defines and substantiallysurrounds an internal space with a hole adjacent to said peripheraledge.
 21. An inflatable cushion as recited in claim 1, wherein when saidfirst inflatable element is substantially fully inflated, said outerelement defines and surrounds an internal space and said outer elementhas at least one access point which, when opened, provides access tosaid internal space.
 22. An inflatable cushion as recited in claim 21,wherein said access point is securable.
 23. An inflatable cushion asrecited in claim 1, further comprising at least one pad attached to atleast one of said outer element and said inflatable element.
 24. Aninflatable cushion as recited in claim 23, wherein said pad is selectedfrom the group consisting of gel pads and foam pads.
 25. An inflatablecushion as recited in claim 23, wherein said pad comprises a moldedshape.
 26. A cushion comprising: a bladder having an internal surfaceand an external surface, said internal surface surrounding and definingan internal space, said external surface comprising a first region, asecond region and a peripheral region extending peripherally around anentire periphery of said bladder, said peripheral region extending fromsaid first region to said second region around said entire periphery.27. A cushion as recited in claim 26, wherein a portion of said bladderwhich is adjacent to said peripheral region is substantially toroidal.28. A cushion as recited in claim 26, wherein said peripheral edge has across-sectional shape which is substantially semi-circular concave,whereby a center region of said peripheral edge is closer to an axisdefined by said peripheral edge than portions of said peripheral edgewhich are in contact with said first region and portions of saidperipheral edge which are in contact with said second region.
 29. Acushion as recited in claim 26, wherein: said first region issubstantially circular, said second region is substantially circular,said first region is substantially planar and positioned in a firstplane, said second region is substantially planar and positioned in asecond plane, and said first plane is substantially parallel to saidsecond plane.
 30. A cushion as recited in claim 26, wherein saidinflatable cushion further comprises at least one valve positioned insaid bladder, whereby fluid can be removed from said internal inflatablespace or supplied to said internal inflatable space through said valve.